The Magpies will reportedly go all out to sign the Crystal Palace attacking midfielder when the transfer window reopens for business after the London club rejected an approach in the January transfer window.

The £40 million spent on Joelinton has been the most expensive deal in the 129-year history of Newcastle United while Bruno Guimaraes could potentially cost £41.5 million if performance related incentives are met.

Whelan has suggested that Crystal Palace could cash in on Eze if they receive a bid in excess of £45m.

"Right now, he’s a Crystal Palace player. Patrick Vieira is trying to build a side with youth for longevity, not to sell them," Whelan said to Football Insider.

"He’s very fresh into the Crystal Palace outfit, he’s had a couple of injuries as well this season. I’d very much doubt that £45million will tempt Crystal Palace to uproot what they’re trying to build.

"He’s a very good young player, he was a standout in the Championship. He has proven already what a good player he will be if he stays fit and you can get him through a full season. "

Eze has three years and four months left on his contract with Crystal Palace, whom he joined from Queens Park Rangers in 2020.

The 23-year-old has made only one Premier League start so far this season after recovering from a long-term injury.